Desert Woodrat (Neotoma lepida)

Desert woodrats, often called packrats, inhabit valley floors or rocky slopes at desert and sub-montane elevations. Dens are built of debris and located under rocks, on the ground, along cliffs, and sometimes in trees or bushes. These dens often include a variety items including trash or man made objects, and they carry the nickname “packrat.” Usually 2 or more litters of 2-3 young are born after a gestation period of 30-36 days. Their eyes are open at 13 days of age and they are weaned after 4 weeks. They feed mostly on seeds, acorns, cacti, or fruit.